What are the solutions to illegal immigration in America?
About this Topic
The issue of illegal immigration, with its broad sub-issues ranging from mass deportation to general amnesty to the building of a 700-mile wall, have not only sparked intense controversy recently, but have been debated since the country's founding. As legal and illegal immigrant populations continue to climb, the issue has taken on a new importance and focus. This site gives readers an overview of the debate offering "pro" and "con" responses to central questions in the words of the actual proponents and opponents of the debate.
PRO Legalization and/or CON Deportation
CON Legalization and/or PRO Deportation
PRO:Proponents believe that illegal immigration benefits the US economy through additional tax revenue, expansion of the low-cost labor pool, and increased money in circulation. They argue that undocumented immigrants perform jobs that keep American society running smoothly. They believe immigrants bring good values, have motivations consistent with the American dream, and that opposition to immigration stems from racism.
CON:Opponents of illegal immigration believe that aliens broke the law by crossing the borders without proper documentation or by overstaying their visas, and therefore deportation is the appropriate option. They regard illegal aliens as criminals, potential terrorists, and social and economic burdens. They argue that undocumented immigrants should not have the right to change their legal status because such lenience will encourage more illegal immigration.